MAROKOPA, NZ — The BBC has announced a six-episode docuseries with Bear Grylls living in fugitive Tom Phillips’ Marokopa bush hideout.
NZ Police has approved the production, with Grylls reenacting Phillips’ off-grid life, hunting, foraging, riding quad bikes, and raising 3 children. Filming starts in winter 2026.
The series will show Grylls with three child actors, mimicking Phillips’ life. The docuseries aims to highlight the dangers of bush living with children.
Phillips family condemned the filming, accusing NZ Police for using their lives for entertainment purposes. The series is set for release in late 2027.
At publishing time, NZ Police has also signed a deal with Hollywood for a movie featuring Chris Hemsworth who will play Tom Phillips.